Andrew Symonds cuts ties with Queensland

Andrew Symonds appears to have played his last game for Queensland, after deciding against taking part in this summer's Big Bash. Symonds, 35, has advised the Bulls he won't be turning out in the Twenty20 tournament this season after he scored 88 runs in six outings during the previous campaign.

"Andrew is living in north Queensland and is in the process of purchasing a farm," the Queensland Cricket CEO, Graham Dixon, said. "He was pretty up-front with us that he was moving in a direction that didn't involve playing cricket again for Queensland.

"We told him that he goes into this phase of his life with our blessings and best wishes. He doesn't owe Queensland Cricket anything and we have been privileged to enjoy the benefit of his skills and his passion for Queensland during his career. Our door is always open to him and I am sure he will continue to keep close ties with us."

Queensland will have a new-look outfit for the Big Bash this summer, with Darren Lehmann having taken over the Twenty20 coaching role after Trevor Barsby resigned. Michael Lumb, the England player, will join the Bulls on Saturday after signing as an overseas recruit for the Big Bash.